Static is a natural phenomenon which affects many industrial and commercial operations and can be a serious hazard especially in explosive atmospheres and in areas where flammable solvents or materials are present.

As regards the problem of electromagnetic interference (EMI), ever increasing harmony between the legislation of European Union (EU) member states is designed to ensure compatibility with regulations which seek to limit and contain the causes and effects of EMI.

This new report in the well-acclaimed series of business reports by Rapra's Industry Analysis and Publishing Group describes the polymers, compounds, additives, fillers, and agents used to dissipate static and EMI.

To combat EMI techniques such as metallic inner shields, plastic laminates, paints filled with conductive particles, cathode sputtering, and chiral absorbers amongst others are addressed. Sections of the report also cover legislation on electromagnetic compatibility and how conformity with such requirements can be assessed.

The influence of grounding, ionization, and humidity on electrostatic discharge is examined as are usage levels and application areas for chemical antistatic agents, conductive fillers, static dissipative compounds and intrinsically conductive polymers.

The report also includes sections on test methods and standards and suppliers of relevant products.

AppendicesA.1 Glossary of Terms Used A.2 Glossary of Abbreviations Used A.3 Directory of Companies Mentioned in the Report A.4 Points of reference in the UK concerning EMC A.5 Suppliers of Antistatic Products and Compounds by Country